To Drive the Cold Winter Away
Loreena McKennitt · 1987
45 min · 10 tracks · world music
A soothing blend of traditional carols and original compositions, steeped in rich Celtic melodies and atmospheric instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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In Praise of Christmas Start here — Opening with a bright and uplifting melody, this track establishes the album's theme of celebration, reflecting both joy and reverence for the season.
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The Wexford Carol — This rendition captures the haunting beauty of an ancient Irish carol, showcasing McKennitt's vocal range and emotional delivery that resonates deeply with listeners.
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Snow — With its evocative imagery and gentle melody, this track transports listeners to a serene winter landscape, highlighting McKennitt's ability to conjure vivid scenes through music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends traditional and original music with strong arrangements and distinctive vocals, creating a unique seasonal experience.
What we noticed
- McKennitt's vocals are layered with harmonies in several tracks, creating an ethereal quality that enhances the seasonal themes.
- The first half of the album maintains a consistent tempo, while the latter half introduces more varied pacing and dynamics, particularly in 'Snow' and 'Let All That Are to Mirth Inclined'.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- serene winter evening ambiance
- haunting melodies for reflection
- seasonal nostalgia and warmth
- patient unfolding of themes
- immersive listening by the fire
Maybe skip if you
- seeking fast-paced excitement
- prefer modern production styles
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album helped establish McKennitt's unique voice in Celtic music.
- Career context
- In 1987, Loreena McKennitt was emerging as a distinctive voice in Celtic music following her debut album, 'Elemental', released just a year prior. 'To Drive the Cold Winter Away' marked her first themed album, focusing on seasonal celebrations and solidifying her unique blend of folk and world music influences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Enya· Clannad· Lisa Gerrard
Tracklist
- 1 In Praise of Christmas Start here 6:05
- 2 The Seasons 4:51
- 3 The King 2:05
- 4 Banquet Hall 3:53
- 5 Snow 5:38
- 6 Balulalow 3:11
- 7 Let Us the Infant Greet 3:46
- 8 The Wexford Carol 6:11
- 9 The Stockford Carol 3:06
- 10 Let All That Are to Mirth Inclined 6:54
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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